Among the many wonders of human physiology is the following reality: The human body is not self-sufficient. In order to survive it requires the intake of various vital matter, from oxygen to the proteins contained in the food we eat. At the same time, however, most of these acts of consumption, although essential to our survival, have what it takes to kill us. Kidney or liver failure or repository illnesses that alter the balance between O and CO2 are as potentially dangerous as any other bodily malfunction. When the body consumes without a filter, it is more than likely going to break down.
Over the course of Chanukah we have the opportunity to light and enjoy the transcendent candles of the Menorah. Those who lit in a doorway were surely made familiar with the Gemara’s recommendation, after some debate, to place them Menorah on the left side of the doorway, opposite the Mezuzah which hangs on the right. Many explain that this configuration of mitzvos is to create an environment where one is surrounded with mitzvos. At first glance, this seems like a persuasive rationale. However, the Meiri, in his commentary on the gemara, seems to emphasize a different aspect of the placement. He is dealing with the obvious reality of most doorways; they have no right or left because it always depends on your own orientation. As a result, the Meiri stresses that the Gemara’s recommendation leaves us with a Mezuzah and a Menorah on the “right.” The Mezuzah is on the right a one enters, and the Menorah is on the right as one exits.
His suggestion is particularly exciting because it would seem to properly reflect the very specific natures of these two Mitzvos. The doorway is a very significant place in the home. It is the area of interaction between the house and the world outside. It is no wonder then, that it figures prominently in the laws of Chanukah. The obligation of Pisrumei Nisa is not limited to an announcement of a single miraculous act but is part of a greater mission of Or LaGoyim. Chanukah is the most public of religious acts and is a prime example of the effect we can have on the common street and in the greater world. Of course, the doorway runs two ways. It is also the point of entry into the house, and this is where the Mezuzah takes the stage. A home is defined by its boundaries; a house without walls is no house at all. These boundaries have breaches, places where the walls must allow the passage of people, possessions, and ideas. The Mezuzah reminds us that not everything from the outside can be brought home. There is a need to filter, and to be especially selective.
So when we exit, it is the Menorah on our side of strength, and it is the Menorah that guides us through our encounter with the world, its culture, and its beauty. And when we return, enlightened and exhausted from that encounter, it is the Mezuzah that greets us at the door. Rav Wosner once explained that the Mezuzah was only intended to cover the breaches in our walls. That is, no home can be perfect in creating an atmosphere of safety and Kedusah. There will always be areas of vulnerability. This is where the Mezuzah promises to help. However, if the walls themselves do not exist, then even the Mezuzah is not enough. The doorway may be covered, but the home itself is overrun.
The physical safety of our homes and families are guaranteed at an unprecedented level. Sadly, they are being bombarded by influences that are of grave danger to the soul. Never before have our homes so closely resembled buildings without walls. Through the wonders of high-speed internet and cable connections, we are attached to our surroundings to an incredible degree. There is no longer even the need for an outlet or wire for us to have the entire world at our fingertips. It is irresponsible to expect the Mezuza alone to serve as our filter. We must make sure that there are walls, not to shut everything out, but to help preserve the sanctity of our homes.
We must not be naive about the stakes of this battle, nor can we afford to be so blind to the fact that we have already suffered considerable casualties. What our children are being exposed to in our own basements, family rooms, and at times, in their own bedrooms often runs contrary to the values and identity we hope to pass on to them.
To crush Yavan and Greek culture is only one step harder than to submit to them. The ultimate challenge lies in integrating the best of their innovations and initiatives and filtering out the good from the dangerous. As we confront the world, we will carry the Menorah in our hand of strength, and present a Judaism of great vibrancy and relevance. And we will work preserve our unique identity and with the help of our Mezuzot and man-made walls.
To Whom It May Concern 